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About Olessia
I come into this work with a deep fascination for life and people.
Particularly, what makes life meaningful and joyful; the interconnectedness of darkness and light, struggle and triumph, and how we relate to all of life’s facets and each other.
In addition to being a counsellor, I am also a certified yoga teacher and a long term practitioner. These days, you may find me on my mat or assisting others at Ashtanga Yoga Squamish.
I have also sat in multiple silent meditation courses (Vipassana, for those who are curious) and come into this work with over 10 years of somatic mindfulness experience, and bring that awareness, presence, and wisdom into my practice.
Prior to that, I had a career in corporate (actuarial science, if you know what that is!) and can certainly empathize with challenges that arise in that environment, as well as questioning one’s path in life, and going through major life transitions.
Through our work together, it is my hope that you will get to know yourself more deeply, love yourself more fully, and discover ways to be yourself in the world that is true and loving to you and everyone you encounter.
At the end of the day, I believe that life is richer in connection with ourselves and others.
Although relationships can be challenging, complicated, and confusing; they can also be healthy and healing, joyful and rewarding, and a secure base to explore and experience the beauty, breadth, and depth of life from. I work with people to help bring them in alignment with relational goals they have for themselves.
Education & Training
Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) — Certified Level 1, AEDP Institute
Couple Therapy Certification with Dr. Alexandra Solomon
Internal Family Systems (IFS) Trauma Treatment with Frank Anderson
Repairing Betrayal with Stan Tatkin
Sessions Live with Esther Perel in NYC
Master of Counselling, City University of Seattle
Bachelor of Mathematics, University of Waterloo
Licence
Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #22580) with British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC)